Reusable Solid-Fuel Rocket Launch + CAD Design

The challenge

Design and fly a recoverable solid-fuel model rocket targeting a 250 m apogee while maintaining structural integrity and providing CAD documentation.

• ✓Develop a complete rocket design using CAD tools.
• ✓Target an apogee of approximately 250 m according to the official competition requirements.
• ✓Design a reliable recovery system.
• ✓Build the physical vehicle based on the digital design.
• ✓Recover the rocket intact after flight.

CAD design

The digital model should clearly communicate the structure and engineering decisions behind the physical rocket.

• ✓Create a detailed CAD model of the rocket.
• ✓Represent major structural components accurately.
• ✓Maintain consistency between the CAD model and physical vehicle.
• ✓Document important dimensions and design parameters.
• ✓Be prepared to explain the design decisions to the judges.

Flight and recovery

The physical rocket must demonstrate controlled flight and successful recovery.

• ✓Complete all required pre-flight checks.
• ✓Use only approved propulsion systems.
• ✓Ensure the recovery system is correctly installed.
• ✓Follow the official range-safety procedure.
• ✓Inspect the rocket after recovery and document its condition.

Evaluation

The project will be evaluated across CAD quality, engineering design, flight performance and recovery.

Safety and compliance

Safety and compliance with the official range procedure are mandatory throughout the competition.

• ✓Use only organiser-approved propulsion systems.
• ✓Do not manufacture or modify propulsion materials.
• ✓Follow all launch-area and range-safety instructions.
• ✓Submit required CAD and technical documentation before the deadline.
• ✓Unsafe vehicles or non-compliant designs may be disqualified.